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COLUMBUS, Ohio (WTVN)--A state lawmaker from central Ohio has introduced a proposal to prevent schools across the state from requiring masks for students, teachers, staff, and visitors.
State Sen. Andrew Brenner introduced Senate Bill 209, which would apply to in-person instruction, school-sponsored athletics, and other school-sponsored extra-curricular activities.
The proposed legislation says an individual "may choose to wear a facial covering but shall not be required to do so."
It was introduced a day before Governor Mike DeWine signed the legislation that prevents Ohio's public schools and universities from requiring a vaccine that is not fully approved by the FDA. None of the three COVID-19 vaccines available in Ohio has received full FDA approval.
While the CDC guidance says those that are fully vaccinated do not need to wear a mask in school, the American Academy of Pediatrics on Monday recommended that everyone in school--including teachers, students, and staff--wear a mask, regardless of vaccination status.